The Aston Martin VH600 is a 5,998 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. Developed in — house by Aston Martin, it features a 60° V12 configuration, DOHC 48 — valve heads, and dry — sump lubrication. In standard tune, it produces 510 kW (694 PS) and 700 Nm of torque, with a redline of 7,500 rpm, delivering high — revving performance and linear power delivery. The engine shares core architecture with the AM31 V12 but features revised intake, exha…
All VH600-powered vehicles comply with Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9345).
The Aston Martin VH600 is a 5,998 cc naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring (2020–2025). It features a 60° aluminum block, DOHC 48-valve heads, and dry-sump lubrication to deliver strong mid-range torque and high-RPM power. Developed entirely in-house, it meets Euro 6d standards while supporting bespoke intake and exhaust tuning for Aston Martin’s acoustic signature.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,998 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 80.8 mm | |
Power output | 510 kW (694 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
Torque | 700 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection, Bosch MD17.8.13 ECU | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 11.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts) | |
Oil type | Castrol Edge 5W-50 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C947-A3) | |
Dry weight | 245 kg |
The Aston Martin VH600 was used across Aston Martin's VH and MLA platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed entirely in-house for grand touring performance. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the DBS Superleggera and revised exhaust manifolds in the DB12-and from 2022 the DB12 adopted the VH600 Evo with higher-lift camshafts and optimized valve timing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The VH600's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner actuator failure on pre-2021 DBS Superleggera units, with elevated incidence during sustained high-load operation. Internal Aston Martin service reports from 2021 indicated hesitation and rough idle in early builds, while UK DVSA records show related fault codes contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Aggressive driving and infrequent inspections increase risk, making use of reinforced gears and proper routing critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2020-2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The VH600 is generally robust when properly maintained, but pre-2021 DBS Superleggera models are prone to intake actuator failures. Later revisions (post-2021) improved actuator durability. Regular oil changes with correct 5W-50 specification and cooling system maintenance are essential. Well-serviced engines can exceed 150,000 km without major issues.
The most frequent issues are intake manifold runner actuator failure (especially in early DBS Superleggera), oil consumption in high-mileage engines, cooling system leaks, and throttle body motor wear. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins and supported by dealer repair records.
The VH600 powers the DBS Superleggera (2020–2023) and DB12 (2023–2025). It is entirely in-house developed and features bespoke intake and exhaust tuning. Each application features model-specific calibration and thermal management systems tailored to grand touring or high-performance use.
Yes, though it is naturally aspirated. ECU remapping can yield +30–50 kW gains safely. Intake and exhaust upgrades improve breathing. Forced induction conversions exist but are complex. Tuning should preserve factory reliability and use high-octane fuel to prevent knock and protect valvetrain integrity.
Moderate for a high-performance V12. In a DBS Superleggera, expect ~18.6 L/100km (city) and ~12.1 L/100km (highway), or 15 mpg UK combined. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style and fuel quality.
Yes. The VH600 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Chain replacement is recommended every 120,000 km or 10 years, whichever comes first.
Aston Martin specifies Castrol Edge 5W-50 meeting WSS-M2C947-A3 standard. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or 2 years. Using incorrect oil can accelerate cam and chain wear due to the dry-sump system and high-pressure valve train design.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
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